Relocating to another country solely for work purposes may sound like madness to some people, but with the ever-increasing demand for work in fields such as software and engineering, this is just another event in many people’s lives. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned traveler or not, moving to a foreign land is still a daunting experience.
There are many things to consider before hopping on the plane and taking off. You’ll likely experience a complete lifestyle change, losing many friends while making new ones. Your family is also affected, and you might find yourself feeling homesick as a result of their absence. From what you’re taking with you, to whether you can afford it, moving is no joke. Listed below are three important things to consider before taking off.
Your Property
Your current property is likely one of your most valuable assets, so what you do with it when you leave can make or break your budget. This of course depends on whether your move is temporary or permanent. If you’re only leaving for a certain period, consider renting it out to help cover your travel costs.
If you’re leaving forever, you’ll need to contact a reliable agency and have them sell the place prior to your departure. With the former option, make sure you find trustworthy tenants as the prospect of having your landlord leave may lead some to avoid paying altogether.
Having the Right Documentation
Most countries have their own policies and requirements for immigrants. You’ll likely need a work permit or visa, along with all your personal documents. Leaving just a single important piece of paper behind can cause a serious headache, especially if you’ve just hopped off the plane in another country. Consider investing in a filing folder or simply purchasing a lockable laptop bag to keep all your documents in for easy access.
European citizens usually don’t require work permits or visas to work in neighboring countries within the EU. However other countries such as Australia have a points-based system for visa qualification. If you’re considering moving down under, check out SponsorShipAustralia.net for some useful information.
Tax Treaties
This lesser considered aspect is important to understand as it can save you from being taxed for your income both in your home country as well as abroad. Most countries have a bilateral tax treaty, which determines how immigrants will be taxed on their income and pension. There’s usually an exemption period when you first arrive. Know when this ends, and what you’ll be paying when it does.
Knowing what to have and what to do before moving abroad is essential to making it a smooth process. It’s also worth noting that you should still allocate some time to exploring and enjoying the sights and sounds of your new home. Make use of your downtime and get to know the places and faces. This is a surefire way of creating memorable experiences and making some great friends along the way.